Engage, Interact, Transact

E-commerce is hotter than ever as more and more consumers shift their focus to the online marketplace. Increased access to the internet via smartphones and tablets is reshaping how and when we buy. With that said, virtual consumer engagement, interaction and transaction are the key to surviving in this changing retail environment.

Consumers no longer want to be spoken at through advertisements but desire collaborative marketing that breaks down the barrier between companies and their customers. As we move forward, the brands that improve their products and recognize the importance of conversing with their consumers will find success by connecting with their audience through a co-ownership strategy. This new call for consumer engagement reflects our changing values towards transparency, accessibility and reach, personalization and curation.

video via DollarShaveClub.com

Meet Michael Dubin, the founder of Dollar Shave Club, a razor-blade business who's witty youtube video has now attracted over 10 million views. The video urges men to buy razor blades on a subscription basis for as little as $2/month and grossed over 12,000 orders in the first 48 hours of launching, causing the site to completely crash. With a background in digital media and marketing, Michael has created a lifestyle company dedicated to providing men with things they need in their everyday lives, in the most convenient and affordable way.

photo via Business of Fashion

Recently launched to the public, The Cools, is a two year old members-only curated marketplace that connects over 50,000 active users with independent fashion and lifestyle brands. The fully integrated social commerce platform provides young labels with little online presence a chance to interact directly with consumers by managing their own stores, publishing content and engaging with consumers. With a 12% commission on sales, The Cools has recently revamped their business model from thousands of sellers as of January to a select 100 brands who best fit the criteria of the site.

photo via NY Times

Hashtagging is one major phenomenon that's gone internationally viral and now, it's about to get a little funny. Comedy Central and Twitter are teaming up to host a five-day comedy festival where comedians post short video clips featuring the hashtag, #ComedyFest. This partnership represents the merging of social media with television as Twitter grows to feature more video content via its platform, Vine. Due to the changing way viewers are watching videos via the internet and social media, television is beginning to experiment with new multi-platform strategies that incorporate more consumer engaging tactics to bring back their audiences.

photo via Mobile Commerce Daily

Others look to advance their mobile efforts to build branding and traffic both on and offline. H&M has launched its latest Conscious Collection via a mobile video campaign using the Hulu Plus video app. Through these videos, H&M is running 15-seocnd clips that show various looks from the new line where consumers can click on a button on the screen that brings them directly to H&M's mobile site. Meanwhile, Kate Spade has built a Saturday mobile site where users can shop the latest trends and newest items from apparel to accessories, home and travel. Here customers can even design their own custom travel bag by personalizing the body, handle, base, front and back pockets, strap colors as well as monogram the bag.

photo via GIGAOM

While many brands link to social media and mobile platforms via their sites, getting customers to socially shop may not be as easy as one would think. Take a company like Zappos that has a huge online presence, but still struggles to capitalize on its social media activity because in their case, customers primarily demand overnight shipping and free returns over social media presence. The problem with large companies like that of Zappos, Amazon and Nordstrom is that they have such widespread customer bases – because they don't focus on one niche, they also can't just target one particular social media platform either. With so many new platforms out there from the most recent Pinterest boom to now Poshmark and Vine, it is extremely hard for retailers to keep up with how their clientele socialize online. Not to mention, how do large companies like this build smaller communities for those who engage and use social media regularly versus those that don't? The only answer thus far is to experiment with a social experience that is innovative, easily accessible and understandable to their customers like that of Urban Outfitters and ASOS.

video via Practical eCommerce

It looks like the digital world finally has its own currency and its called Bitcoin, an electronic cash system that generates money via virtual computers, a shared public transaction log and mathematics to authentic each bitcoin exchanged. One bitcoin is approximately worth $70 USD and much like cash, there are no transaction fees. However, the information of your transaction is accessible by pretty much anyone and everyone including the amount and the address linked to the purchase. While this new controversial online economy may only be around a few more years, it is a monumental step towards changing the way we spend our money in the digital realm.

The power retailers possess is quickly fading as consumers grow more knowledgeable and demand to be more involved with what and how they are selling. It comes down to understanding how to approach the changing retail arena, really understanding and listening to your customers, as well as experimenting with how to apply these changes to your business model. Engagement and interaction aren't just the future, they are what's happening right now and in order to further make those transactions, retailers large, small, well-known and independent are going to have to make the shift to a more captivating way of doing business.

Do Something

In honor of Earth month, we wanted to take some time out and think about what's really important, the world around us and the people we share it with! Despite all the scandals and fast fashion allegations going on, there are tons of companies, celebrities and new initiatives celebrating our precious planet and trying to make a real difference.

With so many things going on in the world including unstable global economies and countless people in need, giving a hand doesn't necessarily mean what you would conventionally think. Whether it's buying products that have more longevity, donating time and/or money to a cause or building a DIY urban garden, what matters is that you are doing something. 

photo via Burt's Bees

First off, we bet you have no idea that some of the smaller, sustainable brands you are supporting are actually owned by larger corporations. For instance, Honest Tea is owned by The Coca-Cola Company and Burt's Bees by The Clorox Company, to name a few. These partnerships create a win-win situation as smaller companies gain resources and larger distribution networks and corporations begin to learn the ins and outs of sustainable operations.

photo via Pickwick & Weller

In today's workplace, the t-shirt, has taken on a new role of professional acceptance. Ashton Kutcher's e-commerce startup, Pickwick & Weller, strives to design, manufacture, and sell "the perfect t-shirt." This vertically integrated online brand is based in LA and appeals to the modern creative type, by offering an assortment of luxury products made of everything from supima to modal cotton, cashmere, linen and silk. The company even brings the fitting room to your home by sending you t-shirts free of charge so you can find the perfect style for you.

photo via Ecouterre

One of the simplest ways we can be more sustainable is by repairing damages to our own clothing. With this idea in mind, denim label, Self Edge, has launched a vintage hemming and repair studio in San Francisco called Darn It!. The space, which is dedicated to everything denim from tailoring stations to restored vintage sewing machines, provides authentic and quality repairs. From fixing holes without patches to replacing buttons and zippers, all repairs cost a flat rate of $40. We don't know about you, but saving a favorite pair of jeans is priceless and not only for our wallets!

photo via Huffington Post

Two of everyone's favorites, Halle Berry and Michael Kors have teamed up in the fight against hunger with their campaign, Watch Hunger Stop. With this initiative, for every Kors' bestselling Runway watch that sells at $295, 100 meals will be donated to children through the U.N. World Food Programme. Together, the pair plans on visiting some of the places meals will be sent which could include Africa, Syria and perhaps Central America. Halle who just announced the pregnancy of her second child, hopes to educate women on prenatal care and talk to mothers struggling to feed themselves and their children. 

video via Vogue UK

On June 1st, as part of Gucci's Chime for Change, a global concert will take place in London to raise awareness and money for female empowerment. Headlined by none other than Beyoncé with additional performances by Florence and the Machine, Ellie Goulding, Izzy, Azalea and Rita Ora, among others, this event calls to bring education, justice and health for girls and women to a worldwide platform. 

photo via Earth Day New York

So this month, with the onset of warmer temperatures and sunshine, take some time to appreciate your local community and environment. If you happen to be in the NY metro area this weekend, make sure to check out the Green Festival at the Javits Center or celebrate with free live performances, displays and exhibits at Union Square on Sunday. We can't do it all alone, but if we team up to combine our resources, one step at a time, anything is possible. 

What Will Tomorrow Bring?

Whether you're keeping up with it or not, our shopping habits are changing. Today's world is driven by multi-stream technology that connects to consumers anytime, anywhere. Companies are finally learning to make the mobile and tech savvy lifestyle of consumers work for them by keeping their customers "in the know" while on the go.

There's so much data out there and as our technology evolves we are only beginning to understand what this data can, does and will bring. How can we best use this knowledge and just as equally important, how will it impact the way we live? We have the ability to track our customers' buying habits – where, when, what and how they are purchasing. This information is crucial as we move forward into the future. So today we ask, how will this affect the face of retail?

video via The New York Times

For a new wave of e-commerce brands like Warby Parker it means learning to better control your supply chain. Many premium brands are cutting out the middlemen and going directly to manufacturers. They want to do it all – from designing, manufacturing, distribution, delivery to building customer relationships. By approaching their business models like this, they can sell luxury products directly to consumers at discounted prices and gain higher profit margins in the process. This explains why many brick and mortar retailers with extensive brand recognition produce their own private lines. However, until recently due to the explosion of the internet and social media, this was very difficult for new brands and start-ups to do because it was hard for them to build brand awareness.

photo via Luxury Daily

That's why many continue to delve deeper into the social media universe to build brand recognition through Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Instagram and now Vine. Take David Yurman who is going more visual by incorporating an Instagram element into their spring marketing initiatives. Through their "Show Your Colors" campaign, consumers can upload an image of their favorite David Yurman piece and tag it #DavidYurman. These hashtags also serve as data analytics so companies can track the virality of their brands. At this point, the key to social media is connecting to your customer's lifestyle by engaging and interacting with them on a direct, everyday basis.

photo via New York Business Journal

Meanwhile, brick and mortar stores continue to take the technology focused route by creating new and exciting in-store customer experiences. Bloomingdale's is teaming up with Me-Ality to bring digital sizing stations to five stores throughout the country, including one right here in New York. These stations take a mere 10 seconds to match up your size and recommend the best denim styles based on your fit, which are sold both in-store and online. According to retail architect M.J. Munsell, "A few stores – Burberry, C. Wonder in New York, Nordstrom – have experimented with dressing rooms that the customer can actually tailor themselves. You can go into a booth...where you can either plug in your iPad, your iPhone for your own music, you can adjust the light levels, and have your own personal oasis."

video via NMANewsDirect

Look at how the cash register has evolved over the years from antique receipt-less cash drawers to computers, self-checkouts and now smartphones and tablets. And now, Walmart has begun to experiment with their new app, Scan & Go where customers can use their iPhone to scan QR codes and then bag and pay quickly at self-checkouts without ever having to unload their cart. With U.S. mobile payments expected to reach $90 Billion by 2017, before we know it we'll have coupons being sent to us via our smartphones as we browse down store isles tracking exactly what we pick up.

video via Lululemon

One brand who has mastered customer engagement is Lululemon. They have transformed their stores into more than just a shopping destination, but a fitness fanatics dream. From the knowledgeable and enthusiastic brand ambassadors to an entire wall of leggings in any color, pattern, length and fabric you can imagine, this brand really focuses on creating a quality experience dedicated to what their customers want. They've even created an app that helps you find yoga classes near you, invite friends and get tips from local yogis. Not to mention, all the floor displays are on wheels so they can be pushed aside for their weekend yoga classes hosted at their stores. What started as an idea for half store/half yoga studio, has now become a power player in the fitness world and plans to expand to 15 new markets, enlarge their menswear line and launch a new girls store called Ivivva.

With all of this in mind, we will continue to invest our time and money into exploring the possibilities of the future. A new world of commerce is just over the horizon as more and more aspects of the way we live are being replaced by computer generated devices and mobile technologies. Tools like these could eventually lead to the extinction of sales associate and traditional shopping habits. Despite, some are trying to preserve our everyday rituals by figuring out new ways to combine the on and offline worlds, developing community driven concepts, and most importantly remaining dedicated to the wants and needs of their customer base. Today we have mobile phones, apps and personalized in-store experiences, but what will tomorrow bring? 

MBF Blogger Picks

It's crazy to think that today bloggers are just as credible as the most prominent magazine editors. Designers are giving them front row access to shows and sending them clothing samples to be featured on their blogs. Their voice matters and some of their followings are incredible. Many of them have transformed a simple hobby into an entire lifestyle as they branch out to become consultants, socialites and even brand ambassadors and models. From fashion to food, they inspire us and represent a new breed of celebrities as well as the future of traditional reporting and writing.

photo via Haute Inhabit

Haute Inhabit

For blogger Lainy Alexandra Hedaya it's not just about personal style, but upcoming trends, runway shows, outfit and interior inspirations, and other fashion/lifestyle related topics as well. Her motto,  "redefining modern elegance" is more than apparent through her selective taste and dedication to sticking to her style, not what people send her to wear. She has even created a Haute Inhabit avatar to represent the trends of the season based on what fashion's top designers have sent down the runway.

photo via The Sunday Girl

The Sunday Girl

If you're overwhelmed by the endless amount of different beauty products out there, this UK based blog offers 100% honest and unbiased reviews to conquer all your beauty crazed questions, concerns and thoughts (there's even a disclaimer!). From Chanel, MAC and Topshop to products from your local drugstore, her fearless skin, hair and nails try it all! She also offers weekly staple products, giveaways and monthly favorite picks covering all the newest and hottest products out there. 

photo via How Sweet It Is

How Sweet It Is

No blog list is complete without at least one pick dedicated to food. Whether you're in the mood for healthy recipes, comfort foods or scrumptious desserts, Pittsburgh based blogger Jessica tries to keep things local and seasonal when she can. While she has no formal culinary training, she has a cookbook set to launch in 2014 and we don't know about you but if it tastes good, that's all we need to know! 

photo via LopezJennyLopez

LopezJennyLopez

Brought to you in both English and Spanish, Colombian swimsuit model Jenny Lopez fuses her unique bohemian style by mixing various price points and decades into fashion, beauty, home decor and travel as readers follow her along on her adventures. In addition, she is designing a jewelry line called Momposina Rocks which combines silver and brass with different findings from around the world. 

photo via Censational Girl

Censational Girl

By keeping "fabulous for less" in mind, this blog is dedicated to your inner DIY bargain hunter. Through a combination of tricks, tips and tutorials, Kate, who also writes a design column for Better Homes and Gardens, teaches readers how to successfully and stylishly decorate on a budget. She reaches an average of 1.9 million pageviews per month, has been featured in a plethora of magazines, and worked closely with brands and retailers like Lowes and Home Depot to West Elm and Donna Karan Home. Who says style can't be affordable?

photo via Lily Kwong

Lily Kwong

Model and blogger Lily Kwong incorporates an impeccable mix of sophistication and eclectic looks into everything she does. Her blog invites readers along on all her fashion related events she attends to give us an inside view into her life as a socialite. Not only is she a Vogue favorite, but cousin to designer Joseph Altuzarra, who she frequently collaborates with. 

video via Elite Daily

Nasty Gal
Nasty Gal has been all over the press lately and this online fashion phenomenon's following continues to explode with over 621,000 Facebook fans and 550,000 average monthly users. Their blog not only posts inspirational images and gives us a glimpse into the Nasty Gal shopper from style to music, movies, models, and California life, but also a behind the scenes look into the infamous Sophia Amoruso and the rest of the Nasty Gal family.

"It's Not About the Destination, It's About the Journey" Part II

Towards the end of 2012 we took you to Seattle, Costa de la Luz and Edinburgh. With Spring on its way this week, we thought we'd inspire you with some more of our travels!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

1. Capri, Italy

While it may be a bit of a trip to get to Capri, it's totally worth it! From a flight out of Naples to a cab to the Beverello port to a ferry to the island followed by a 5 minute ride on the Funicular, you'll find yourself right in the center of the city at the famous "Piazzetta," where you can enjoy a view of the beautiful landscape of the Tyrrhenian Sea.

Since the fall of the Roman Empire, Capri has been a destination of relaxation, good eats, and a place to admire the greatness of nature. It's also a source of amazing activities like fishing and swimming in the clear, turquoise waters, exploring hidden coves, deep gorges and enchanting bays, or maybe even for falling in love.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

The majestic Hotel Scalinatella, was established in the 1950s and is run by the Morgano family, whom are credited for running the best hotels on the island. Located along the Via Tragara and its fragrant gardens, this boutique hotel is like living in a dream with its amazing Moorish facade and terrace, perfect for a sunny breakfast overlooking the sea.

No trip to Capri is complete without visiting the Grotta Azzurra, the Faraglioni rocks and the Monacone stump, which are accessible via several boat tours or if you are feeling like a brave sailor, rent a boat on your own and navigate through the waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Don't forget to take your scarf and big sunglasses, just like Jackie Onassis did back in the late 60's!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

While near the Sorrentine peninsula, you might as well visit Pompeii which is a ferry ride to Sorrento and a train ride called the circumvesuviana away, and runs around the base of Mount Vesuvius. Pompeii, which was once an ancient Roman city until 76AD when mount Vesuvius erupted and buried the city under the 13 feet of ash and pumice, was known for its high economical level as well as a major source of entertainment. The city was lost for nearly 1700 years until it was rediscovered in 1748 and now remains a common place of excavation projects and historic landmarks like the Foro, Apollo's Temple and Anfiteatro. Despite, Pompeii is an attraction worth visiting with its well conserved ruins, historic significance and hot weather that gets you craving a sorrentine lemon flavored granita every time!

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

2. Istanbul, Turkey

Having the best of both worlds is such a Turkish thing and who wouldn't want that? Spanning both Asia and Europe and divided by the Bosphorus, Istanbul is becoming a great destination for travelers who want to see a very interesting mix of culture, history and people.

Considered the modern Constantinople, Istanbul is home to the most extraordinary treasures from ancient civilizations in the Topkapi Palace which is full of such relics as the Topkai dagger, the Spoonmaker's Diamond, Moses' rod, Abraham's saucepan, John the Baptist's hand and Mohammed's footprint, one of his teeth and a selection of his beard hairs. However, this palace is more than just a place of treasure and features a fabulous Turkish lunch spot just in front of the Marmara Sea.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

One of the most unique things to do in Istanbul is to take a cruise into the Bosphorus and stand in the middle of the two continents while smoking nargile (a water pipe) with an exotic flavored tobacco. Near the Bosphorus are a plethora of restaurants serving fresh fish caught in the morning and as the sunset calls people to prayer, turn your focus to the river at night to watch one of the most picturesque views of the river, moon and mosque towers.

Did we mention Istanbul is a great shopping destination as well? Turkey, being a world leader in textile manufacturing, is the perfect place to find great home accessories and quality clothing. Not to mention, the Grand Bazaar is a 500 year old covered market filled with over 5,000 vendors who are bargaining prices and goods.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

So say your prayers three times during the day and make sure to climb to the top of Galata Tower as the Muslim ritual rings throughout the city. Visit the Blue Mosque, the New Mosque and the Hagia Sophia, which used to be the basilica during the Roman Empire and later became a mosque in the Ottoman Empire. Here's a quick tip...pack socks and a scarf because you may be asked to take your shoes off and cover your head!

Despite all the history, Istanbul has many 21st century aspects as well located in Beyoglu which is full of chic boutiques and the best "mayhanes," or traditional eating houses. If you are looking to stay in style, The House Hotel in Nisantasi is located right above Prada and is the homiest of accommodations with soft lights, coffee tables and bookshelves. While the days are fun here, so are the nights and if you are looking for a fun night out, 360 is the place to be. Located over the Misir Apartments, this rooftop bar and restaurant has amazing dinner cuisines and cocktails all complimented by the city illuminated by night.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

3. Medellín, Colombia

Nicknamed "Land of Eternal Spring" because of its warm days and cool nights, Medellín is the perfect city for all you outdoor lovers. From the breathless Botanical Gardens tucked in the center of the city to Parque de los Pes Descalzos, a great spot to kick off your shoes and walk around barefoot, take some time to enjoy the fresh air and natural surroundings. One of the newest and most popular additions, Parque Arvi, is assessable via a metro cable that takes you to the top of the city and into the park for a combination of spectacular views and adventure.

While you're in Medellín you have to go to one of the most visited areas in the entire city, El Parque Lleras. The beautiful park is lined with high-end clothing stores and small eateries that portray a very modern Colombia. Grab lunch at one of the vegetarian and vegan restaurants like Verdeo or Ceres Organic Market. For typical Colombian cuisine, visit Oscar de la Renta's favorite, Ajiacos y Mondongos, where the wait may be long but it's totally worth it! By night, get your rock'n'roll on at the popular club Blue and stay at the very chic and up and coming hotel, The Charlee, which was featured on Condé Nast Traveler's Hot List for best new hotels in 2012.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

If you're looking to get your fill on some traditional Colombian culture, El Pueblito Paisa is a small replica of colonial times and takes you back in history without ever leaving the modern city. Not to mention, there are plenty of museums from the Museo de Arte Moderno Medellín to the Museo de Antioquia, which contains original sculptures and paintings from the famous Medellín artist, Fernando Botero. While in the Botero mood, make sure to check out the Plaza Botero which is filled with more sculptures and located right along the Museo de Antioquia.

photo via MBF Trend Consulting

Take a stroll through the trendy Parque El Poblado and watch it come alive after dark with everyone from tourists to the city's youth. There are plenty of bars that even allow you to grab a drink to go so you can relax in the park and hang with friends. Looking for a midnight snack? Grab some late night fast food Colombian style with salchipapas, hamburgers, hotdogs or arepas. End the night at the nearby Donde Chepe, a local spot where they serve unique shots and cocktails and plenty of interesting company.

What are some of your favorite places you've traveled? There will be more to come soon so stayed tuned...

GQ's Best New Menswear Designer in America

We're thrilled to note that one of our Salon participants has just been named Best New Menswear Designer in America for 2013 by GQ...

photo via GQ

Congratulations to everyone at Ernest Alexander!

Expectations vs. Reality

We recently had a conversation in the office about the hit show “Girls” and how accurately it represents its Gen Y counter group. After Lena Dunham’s wins at the Golden Globes for Best Actress in a Comedy Series and Best TV Comedy, we started asking ourselves, is this show realistic of the lives of its 20-something Millenial viewers? Who is this generation and what are they all about?

photo via USA Today

For most Gen Y-ers, life is about experiences. Whether its traveling, embarking on a career path or following a dream, they are just trying to figure it all out. With a struggling economy, competitive employment and tons of debt, life isn't that easy and these Millenials definitely take it much more seriously than some come to believe. According to USA Today, those aged 18-33 suffer from higher levels of stress, anxiety and depression than their elders. The problem lies in the fact that this generation was raised being told to follow their dreams and that they can do anything they set their minds to. As these Millenials grow up a bit, they are beginning to experience a huge wake up call...that it's not that simple, but no pressure, right?

photo via Refinery 29

Although, they do have one thing on their side, social media. From growing up on Myspace and AIM to Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, Blogger, Tumblr, Instagram, LinkedIn and now Pinterest, they understand this new way of connecting better than any other generation. With the help of these platforms, Gen Y-ers are finding new ways to make their dreams a reality. Today, everyone is given a voice and the ability to put it out there. Anyone can make music, films, art, fashion, blog or be an entrepreneur in the global online world. The difficult part lies in the ability to stand out from the rest of the online international community and for this generation being unique is highly valued. There is one very distinctive thing these Millenials have done that no other generation has ever done before and that's creating their own service economy among people of the same age bracket. This attribute gives Gen Y not only power in the market but who better understands their needs, wants and demands better than themselves?

photo via Business Insider

As many of you know, mobile phones are more crucial to this generation than any other before them. This group depends on these devices to remain constantly "in the know" through calling, emailing, texting, facebooking, tweeting, instagramming and of course video chatting. Facebook and blogs have literally become digital diaries and scrapbooks for this generation who highly values the thoughts and comments of their peers. They grew up in front of computers so where they get inspiration from and how they use their imagination is much more clever because of the tools they have access to.

Overall, everything has gone much more public, which at times can be challenging. It's easy to stay connected and now with new technology, there's also a way to remain disconnected, when you choose to. For instance, Killswitch, which was released on Valentine's Day, is basically the digital version of discarding of your ex's things and removes all traces of him or her from your Facebook after a breakup. Another app, Ex-Lover Blocker, notifies your friends whenever you try to contact an ex and the site, Never Liked It Anyway, gives you a less painful way of ridding your offline life of gifts from a former relationship and make some money in the meantime.

photo via The Guardian

These Gen Y-ers, were not only raised in a technology friendly environment, but were the first generation to really be taught sustainability concepts in school. As this group continues to age, the importance of living eco-consciously is becoming further engrained in their lifestyles. When they can afford it, they buy sustainable products, but still many fall victim to trendy and cheap fast fashion. They get bored fast and still don't make much money, however their ideals remain and are beginning to challenge fast fashion retail to be more eco-friendly. Their beliefs that all products in general should embrace this type of consciousness will continue to shape the sustainable marketplace and hopefully bring it forward for future generations to come.

photo via Treasure & Bond

Every generation has a different set of hardships. Whether we think the show "Girls" accurately represents the mindset and lifestyle of this generation? We're still undecided! However, everything is changing so quickly for these Gen Y-ers that it's hard to keep up. We don't know what's going to happen anymore so Millenials are forced to think in a much more short term mindset and get a bit more creative with how they live their lives in the process. Forget saving for retirement and social security. Forget 9-5's and corporate culture. This group is living in the now. They make their own schedules by working freelance and choose to work for smaller, ethical start-ups and be a part of a community. And if they don't know what something is or how to do a task, they google it and teach themselves. They are confident, tech-savvy multi-taskers and despite being dreamers, they have expectations and one day, they will make them a reality.

What's Your Story?

Who doesn't love a great story? We know we do! And in today's retail environment, the significance of a story to your concept is more than crucial. It's all about the who, what, where, why and how of your brand. With the ability for consumers to get practically anything from around the world via the internet, they want to know they're buying something special. We are no longer limited to what brick and mortar stores in our local area offer, but an endless amount of online stores and plethora of products in the international marketplace. Our values are changing and preserving a sense of community, even online, remains key especially in the vast world of the internet.

photo via Culture Baby

Culture Baby is an online global children's boutique that not only sells clothes, toys and accessories for your favorite little ones, but celebrates cultural heritage from around the world. They strongly believe that children should know about the world they are living in and what better way than to wear and play in it? From Africa, Asia, South America, Europe and the USA these carefully selected products are made from an array of international entrepreneurs and designers. Culture Baby takes it even one step further by offering non-toxic and organic items as well as sustainable, ethical and fair-trade merchandise. We spoke about the importance of going global a few posts ago and we feel this brand is a major innovator in the international children's wear arena, especially since children love a good story even more than adults!

photo via The Sinclair

If you're in the Boston area in the near future, make sure to grab a bite at The Sinclair Kitchen. This music venue now doubles as a trendy restaurant to your pre-concert evening out and offers delightful eats under Chef Michael Schlow's expertise. The venue which is part of The Bowery Presents, is influenced by the likes of New York, California and New Orleans. With communal tables, a fantastic bar downstairs and a more traditional dining atmosphere upstairs, this spot tells the perfect story of food, drink and music.

video via Made by Hand

There's nothing more special than handmade products. Martinez Cigars, started in 1974, hand roll all their cigars at a factory right here in New York on 29th street. Not only was this craft passed down from father to son, but today it has become a neighbor meeting place for a fine cigar, friendly face and good story.

photo via Alkemie

Last week we stopped by the Designers & Agents international trade show to check out some of the most innovative emerging brands out there. One of the first ones to grab our attention was Alkemie, a socially and environmentally responsible jewelry brand brought to life by a lovely husband and wife duo who both come from former jewelry backgrounds. Their entire collection is handmade in LA and made of 100% reclaimed metals and sustainable and earth-friendly dyed leathers. So far they have been featured in editorials in Spanish Vogue, French Elle, Lucky, WWD and Spin Magazine, to name a few. Most of their pieces are priced under $200 and sold at one of our favorite shops, Treasure & Bond!

photo via Alkemie

While chatting with the couple, we couldn't take our eyes off of Ashley's really hip East West Musical Instruments jacket, deemed the back pack jacket so motorcyclists had an extra pocket while riding. But what's really interesting is Ashely's story about how he had to get it...About 15 years ago, he went to an East West collector in LA and in order to get the jacket he had to find another collectible East West jacket to trade it for, which took him over a year to do. East West Musical Instruments originally started by making instruments and then one day decided to make a fringed leather shirt, which quickly sold to the iconic Janis Joplin. From there it was fashion history and they expanded to make unique leather jackets, pants, shirts and bags that sold to the likes of Jerry Garcia, Robert Plant and Elvis Presley, among many other rock legends. How's that for some music history?

photo via Kempton & Co.

Looking for a new "it" bag? Kempton & Co just may be it! These one of a kind, technology friendly bags are made of vintage materials like linen and hemp. The Deceiver bag collection (our personal favorite) sparked from designer Fiona Kempton's idea to give her stylish handbags a built in protective sleeve for laptops. Some of her other versions are adorned with sewn in wallets, iPad holders and special compartments for your keys so you can now travel with ease. Their first shop is set to launch this Spring in Brooklyn and will feature custom work, monogramming on small leather goods and even some other brands, for men too, so stay tuned!

photo via Susan Woo

Based in New York with a focus on both luxury and sustainability, Susan Woo stands by the fact that "luxury equals thought and consideration." She uses natural and organic silks, wools and jersey blends, which she believes are synonymous with high quality and a modern way of living. To her, "fast fashion is buying a look" and "luxury fashion is story telling." If that's so, we definitely want to see the sequel to this story!

It's all about the stories we tell. Where does it all come from and how? We are more informed these days and with that we ask more questions. It's no longer just about the ending, but the entire process from concept to creation to the end user. Your story is your mark on the world. We all have a unique story to tell that makes us stand out from the rest, it just has to be told in the right way, at the right time. So, what's your story?

Time To Reform

With two stores in New York, one in LA and a growing online presence, the environmentally sustainable brand, The Reformation is taking "a new approach to fashion." Recently, we spoke with Creative Director Yael Aflalo about what this unique concept is really all about and what the future holds for the label.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Please tell us a bit about your background. How did the store concept come about? What are the thoughts behind it?

Yael Aflalo: I’ve worked in the fashion industry for almost 15 years. I started my first clothing line, Ya-Ya when I was 19 and after ten years of running the company, I became disillusioned with the waste created by fashion brands, which included my own. This pushed me to launch a more environmentally responsible way of creating fashion, which began with a small Reformation store on 3rd Street in Los Angeles.

Reformation is a new approach to fashion. We believe that design, value and sustainability can coexist. We want to provide our customers with styles that generate a fraction of the environmental impact created by most fashion brands without sacrificing any element of design and providing these at accessible price points.

Our styles are limited-edition and we manufacture all of these at our downtown Los Angeles factory. This allows us to release designs that reflect the latest fashion trends. By cutting out the middleman and selling through our own boutiques and online store, we are able to control costs and pass these savings to our customers. We also source vintage garments and sustainable fabrics and incorporate green practices throughout our supply chain.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Tell us more about your in-store products…how and where are they manufactured? What about the vintage pieces? Where do you source them?

YA: In our stores, we carry two lines of clothing. One is our Collection, which includes pieces that are all designed by me and our head designer. These are manufactured in our factory in Los Angeles. We collect design inspiration and use it as a basis to create the clothing that we all love to wear. We repurpose vintage garments, which we source from rag houses, to make a subset of our Collection. For the remainder, we use deadstock and surplus fabrics, which are sourced from fabric houses across the country. We are in the process of introducing sustainable fabrics to make our designs and we are excited about the first order we just placed!

Our second line, Vintage, includes vintage pieces that are sourced from various buyers across the country. They scour flea markets, vintage shows and secret places they won’t tell us about!

MBF: We hear you have a newly created wholesale division, who are some of your clients?

YA: We currently have a wholesale business with Urban Outfitters, and are working on a few collaborations that will be rolled out over the next few months. Stay tuned!

photo via The Reformation

MBF: Can you tell us about your customer? Do they come in specifically asking about the sustainable aspect of your store concept? Are people familiar with that particular concept?

YA: Our customer appreciates bold, provocative design, but also loves her basic closet pieces. She is looking for unique pieces that aren’t mass-produced. Our customers range in age from 18 to 45 – we have a lot of moms and their daughters shopping together! The Reformation consumer is not willing to compromise looking good for doing good, so our strong designs are a critical complement to our green process. In general, our customers aren’t necessarily buying our products because of the green aspect of our brand, however, more and more girls are reaching out and telling us how much our mission resonates with them! We believe as we continue to demonstrate that green fashion can be both beautifully designed and accessible, our consumer following will only increase.

MBF: What are the most important channels for marketing your shop concept?

YA: I think digital channels are the most important and where our message has been communicated best. Given the cult following of our brand, the frequent engagement through social media is important to our customers. We also launch new products constantly, and digital channels are a great way to share these releases.

photo via The Reformation

MBF: How do you keep up with design inspirations?

YA: I think the important thing is to always be open and aware of everything. Looking at people on the street, paying attention to the clothes in movies, going into stores and seeing what other people are doing. If you keep your eyes open to your surroundings there is always inspiration around.

MBF: You presently have three stores, what are your future expansion plans?

YA: We are focused on building our online business and I believe it’s such a powerful channel to communicate our brand message worldwide. We are open to expanding our physical store presence down the line, but right now we really want to make our website an amazing experience for our customers!

Go Global or GO HOME!

Well, it's that time of the year again...fashion week and this season it's all about online! We are moving (quicker than we realize) towards a global lifestyle and regardless of where we are sitting from around the world, we can still stay informed. Here at MBF, we are officially moving up to the cloud so we can work anywhere, at anytime.

From catwalk to computer screen, a global audience of consumers now has front row access right there with fashion's finest as we shift towards a completely virtual fashion experience. Just think about the growing number of fashion bloggers in attendance and how they have become just as important as any buyer, editor or socialite. The two fashion worlds, online and offline, are blending in full force.

photo via Mashable

Do designers finally have fashion and technology working in their favor? Live-streaming has pretty much become the status quo as we begin to forget what it actually feels like to physically be at a live show. If you remember back in the 1950's it was forbidden to even sketch the looks let alone photograph them and today, we have instant viewing while the show is still in progress like on style.com. Topshop and Google team up to take it one step further with "The Future of the Fashion Show" which allows viewers to see the show from all different points of view whether on the runway, backstage or front row. WWD has even partnered with Paper by FiftyThree to compile live-sketches from select shows at NYFW including the likes of Marc Jacobs, Proenza Schouler, DVF, Oscar de la Renta, J. Crew, Calvin Klein and Alexander Wang. It's all about finding new ways to enhance the online experience.

photo via NY Times

Through this instant technology, designers and brands are cutting out the middleman and going straight to consumers via online platforms and social media like Twitter. Now companies like Belstaff, can use data analytics to predict what items will hit stores based on their web viewers favorite looks. They now have the ability to tap into what consumers are watching, from where, which devices and for how long as well as which looks consumers pause for. This information is also revolutionizing brands' e-commerce platforms which can now be fine tuned depending on each country's clicks and viewing preferences.

photo via Elle UK

Not to mention, through sites like Moda Operandi and Lyst, which pre-sell runway clothes as the shows are live streaming, brands have move available insight into what will sell in the future and what pieces to produce more of. Burberry recently launched a new "Made to Order" initiative which gives their global consumers the opportunity to purchase and personalize outerwear and handbags as they are shown on the catwalk. Forget buyers, agents and consulting agencies, consumers have the power to decide what's in store now!

photo via Elle

Just look at how consumer buying habits are affecting all our industries. Magazines like Elle now offer free iPad apps when you subscribe. Best Buy and Barnes & Noble are severely hurting since we don't buy tangible media anymore; we download and stream everything. Television is being replaced with online TV and web series like "House of Cards." And do land lines still exist? Barely. The computer is even disappearing as smartphones just get smarter.

photo via WWD

So what does this mean for the fashion industry? Well first of all, this access to the latest trends fuels both the fast fashion and knockoff industries even more than before. Not to mention, with growing direct-to-consumer business, will we even need sales agents or showrooms anymore? This could possibly be foreshadowing the eventual extinction of apparel trade shows or at least major updating to adjust to the fast changing industry. And now with the middleman gone, will these brands pass on this margin to their customers? As our retail business models evolve, the entire way we position our price structures is going to have to change too. While some retailers continue to focus primarily on their brick and mortar expansion, they better take another look at their strength in the online community because this is the future of fashion. We are living in it right now and there's nowhere to go but global.

What are your favorite looks from fashion week thus far? Make sure to check out some of our personal highlights from the runway on our Pinterest page and "like" us on Facebook to stay "in the know" with all the latest happenings in the industry!